Picturedrome parties Gatsby-style in Bognor Regis to celebrate refurb

The newly refurbished Picturedrome Cinema in Bognor Regis was transformed into a 1920s cocktail lounge for a Great Gatsby inspired party at a Grand Gala Night on Friday 17 May.

Bognor Regis Town Council, which owns the building, teamed up with Adam Cunard, MD of the operating company, to showcase the result of all their efforts in refurbishing the building, both inside and out. The once shabby dark and rundown venue has been transformed back to the splendour of its heyday, with new seats and carpets, digital projection and revamped kiosks.

The main auditorium now looks resplendent having been repainted in its original pink and gold to pick out the fine Art Deco architectural features which had been obscured by years of dirt and neglect. The exterior of the building has been cleaned and repaired to replace the beautiful coloured stained glass canopy, and the distinctive round glass tower is now transparent, illuminated  and displaying a revolving sign that can be seen for miles around.

A full house of invited guests turned out in style to watch The Great Gatsby. As they entered the foyer via the red carpet, they were announced by the Toastmaster in his livery, and introduced to waiting dignitaries, including the Mayor, before being handed a cocktail or a glass of champagne and canapés.

Invitations suggested 1920s dress, and the guests had certainly taken it seriously; there were some stunning outfits on show, and a plethora of feather boas, beads and headbands, sequins and fur.

A wonderful evening was had by all, and it was a great opportunity to show off the stunning results of all the hard work and investment which went into making the Picturedrome cinema a building to be proud of, hopefully for many years to come.